Sugar tax plans get the go ahead

Thursday, 15 December 2016 00:00

Politicians on the Isle of Man have voted in favour of bringing in a sugar tax.

This week Tynwald agreed to support the principle of taxing soft drinks which have a high sugar content in order to raise government revenue.

It was an idea brought forward by Rushen MHK Juan Watterson who says our nation is facing an 'obesity epidemic':

Statistics show there are 15,500 obese adults and 11,000 morbidly obese adults on the Island.

Mr Watterson said the tax would be 'neither simple nor popular' but believes change is needed:

More from Isle of Man News

'Evidence mounting' operations are being cancelled to save cash, says MHK

Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper's asking people to contact him if they've been told their operations have been cancelled to save cash.
Calendars raise more than £300 for Thomas's vet bills!

Fundraising calendars for Ramsey's favourite feline have raised more than £300 towards his vet bills.
Tree work to shut road in Onchan

The Department of Infrastructure says a main road in Onchan will shut tomorrow morning.
Charity makes urgent appeal for funds to help it survive

A charity which helps keep young people out of trouble says it's facing tough times ahead as it tries to find funding to survive after March.
Assisted dying bill takes a step closer to becoming law

The Island's assisted dying legislation has taken a step closer to becoming law.
There'll be gnome-ore of that, say commissioners

Laxey's facing a gnomelessness crisis - after commissioners labelled little people outside their office a health and safety hazard.
Pub appeals for return of stolen bar mats

A pub in the west of the Island has warned sticky-fingered boozers it'll find them after a brazen theft.
Tynwald dumps Twitter

Tynwald says it's leaving Elon Musk's social network.